Here then are 12 of the toughest prison sentences handed out to Hartlepool criminals so far this year.
Unless otherwise stated, all have received more than four years behind bars after appearing at Teesside Crown Court.
1. Ahmed Alid
Alid, 45, formerly of Wharton Terrace, Hartlepool, was jailed for a minimum of 45 years as part of a life sentence after he was convicted of murdering Terence Carney on October 15. Photo: Third party
2. Callum Barclay
Barclay, 25, of Stephen Street, Hartlepool, has been jailed for 15 years at Newcastle Crown Court after he admitted assault and was convicted of rape and two counts of sexual assault. Photo: National World
3. Aaron Donley
Donley, 34, of Lime Crescent, Hartlepool, was jailed for seven years after he admitted controlling and coercive behaviour, arson, assaulting an emergency worker, unlawful wounding and actual bodily harm. Photo: Third party
4. Daryl Forster
Forster, of Ibrox Grove, Hartlepool, was jailed for five years after he was convicted of seven offences which included causing actual bodily harm, controlling and coercive behaviour and sending malicious communications. Photo: Third party